Philippines: Authorities rescue abducted Chinese nationals in Malate, Metro Manila, July 21

Event

According to belated reports, police officers rescued three Chinese nationals in the Malate area of Metro Manila in an entrapment operation at around 22:00 July 21. The kidnappers abducted two of the women from their home in Makati; reports indicate that they were beaten and starved during their detention in Paranaque. Details on the third victim's abduction remain unclear. Authorities say three Chinese citizens and two Filipino men kidnapped the women and demanded PHP 3 million (USD 53,436). Police have not announced a motive for the abductions.

Context

The threat of kidnapping is high in the Philippines, including Metro Manila. Several organized crime syndicates focusing exclusively on kidnap-for-ransoms operate in and around the National Capital Region. Some criminal groups target workers or customers of POGO companies, Chinese nationals, East and South Asian expatriates, short-term travelers, and members of the Chinese-Filipino business community and their families. Criminal abductions of Westerners occur less frequently, though the threat remains. Most victims are rescued by authorities or released unharmed relatively quickly after the abductors receive a ransom payment.